English Lab Completes 3-Year Service Dog Program for Army Vet with PTSD

Three Years in Training: How Becky the Lab Was Prepared to Support a Veteran Living with PTSD

Gainesville, FL, United States – May 20, 2026 / Casper’s Camp Hope Dog Training /

Gainesville, FL – Monday May 18, 2026 – Casper’s Camp Hope Dog Training – The behavior specialists in Florida. announced the successful training and placement of Becky, an English Labrador sourced through Hero Labradors, who has completed an extensive, real-world service dog training journey and has been matched with Nick, a young Army veteran living with PTSD.

Becky’s journey reflects a mission-driven collaboration between Hero Labradors, the training team at Casper’s Camp Hope Dog Training, and the nonprofit The Underdog K9 For Vets Project, with a shared focus on helping the underdog thrive while supporting those who have served their country.

Selected by Hero Labradors

Casper’s Camp Hope Dog Training was chosen by Hero Labradors as one of a select few trainers nationwide to help prepare an English Labrador puppy for veteran service work. “We don’t take that kind of trust lightly,” said Jimmy Nievez, owner and lead trainer. “From day one, Becky wasn’t treated like a dog in training, she was treated like what she truly was: a future lifeline.”

Three Years of Training Built for Real Life

Becky completed approximately three years of structured development through Service dog training, encompassing protocols designed to build emotional steadiness, confidence, and reliability under pressure. A central component of her preparation included off leash obedience, a practical skill set for veterans who require freedom and safety in everyday environments and on outdoor trails.

Her training was supported by a dedicated team of trainers and kennel technicians who maintained consistent routines, clear expectations, safe structure, and calm connection – elements considered critical to producing dependable working dogs.

Mentor Dogs and a Family Environment

Becky’s development was shaped not only by her human handlers, but also by the camp’s mentor dog pack. She was the last student of Casper, the program’s primary mentor dog, before his passing. She later developed social confidence under the guidance of Lolin, and was guided through to placement by Bernie, a mentor Saint Bernard.

Becky also spent regular time in a home environment with service dog trainer El Junior, who integrated her into daily family life alongside his two children with autism, Denise and Milo, allowing Becky to practice real-world steadiness, connection, and calm responsiveness.

Veterinary Support and Mission-Driven Care

Throughout her time in the program, Dr. Michael Sturgeon supported Becky’s health and readiness, providing ongoing veterinary care and serving as a valued part of the extended team behind her development.

Matched with Army Veteran Nick

Becky has been matched with Nick, a young Army veteran living with PTSD who enjoys nature and trail walks and has become active in support and awareness efforts focused on preventing veteran suicide. Becky’s training – particularly her off leash obedience and public reliability – was designed to complement this lifestyle and provide steady companionship on both difficult days and hopeful ones.

About Casper’s Camp Hope Dog Training

Casper’s Camp Hope Dog Training – The behavior specialists in Florida. provides Puppy Training, Service dog training, and off leash obedience programs built for real-world reliability. Based near Gainesville, FL, the organization focuses on structured training and behavior work that prioritizes clarity, safety, and lasting results. Learn more

Media Contact

Casper’s Camp Hope Dog Training – The behavior specialists in Florida.

Phone or Text: 13522222432

Website: https://www.casperscamphope.com

About The Underdog K9 For Vets Project

The Underdog K9 For Vets Project supports veterans and first responders by training and placing dogs that provide stability, confidence, and companionship, helping the underdog thrive while supporting those who served.